The need for non-traditional workforce training programs for young adults
In a world where traditional education often takes center stage, it’s easy to overlook the fact that many young adults thrive through non-traditional workforce training programs. For those who don’t fit into the conventional academic mold, apprenticeships, internships, and alternative training programs offer hands-on experience and industry-specific skills that can be just as—if not more—valuable than a classroom education. Reflecting on my own journey, I realize how crucial these opportunities were in shaping my career and passions in ways that traditional education alone could not.
My story began with an internship at the Chicago Law Department—an experience that had a profound impact on my life. As a high school student uncertain about my future, I had always been drawn to social justice, community advocacy, and the idea of creating change through law and policy. When I applied for the internship, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I hoped it would provide insight into the legal field.
The experience was transformative. Working alongside seasoned professionals, I was introduced to the practical aspects of legal aid and saw firsthand how the law could be a powerful tool for social change. I assisted with case preparation, conducted legal research, and observed legal proceedings. What stood out to me the most was seeing the direct impact that legal work had on people’s lives, particularly within the communities I cared about.
This internship was more than just a job—it was a gateway to my future. It ignited a passion for law and policy that I hadn’t fully realized before. I came to understand that I wanted to create change in my community not just through activism but through legal aid and advocacy. This experience ultimately led me to pursue a degree in Political Science, a path I might not have considered without my time at the Chicago Law Department.
In addition, my internship with Increase The Peace Chicago further solidified my desire to work in legal aid. During my time there, I worked with young people seeking guidance and mentorship, learning firsthand the importance of community-based support. Increase The Peace’s mission to connect communities with legal services and advocate for justice aligned perfectly with my passion for social change.
Today, I serve as an administrator for the Increase The Peace Legal Aid Clinic. Thanks to the skills I gained during my high school internships, I returned to Increase The Peace as an adult, where I now help provide free legal services to over 200 community members in partnership with Beyond Legal Aid. This role has allowed me to combine my education with my passion for making a tangible impact in people’s lives. The mentorship and exposure I received early on have been invaluable to my career.
Looking back, I realize that without these non-traditional workforce training programs, I might never have pursued a degree in Political Science or considered law as a career. These internships provided me with the hands-on experience and practical skills that laid the foundation for my professional growth. They connected me with real-world opportunities and helped me build a career that aligns with my values and aspirations.
This is why non-traditional workforce training programs are so important. They give young adults the chance to explore career paths and gain industry-specific experience in ways that traditional education sometimes cannot. Many of these programs, like internships, offer a direct path to employment and provide skills that are immediately applicable in the workforce. In my case, my internships didn’t just shape my academic journey—they opened doors that led to a fulfilling career in legal aid.
Non-traditional programs offer more than just an introduction to a field; they provide real-world exposure, mentorship, and opportunities for personal and professional development. For young adults who might not fit within traditional education systems, these programs can be life-changing. If we continue to invest in and promote these alternative pathways, we can equip young adults with the tools they need to succeed—not just in the workplace, but in their communities as well.
For me, my internships at the Chicago Law Department and Increase The Peace Chicago were pivotal moments that not only shaped my career but also allowed me to make a meaningful impact in my community. These programs provided more than just job experience—they gave me the tools and support I needed to build a career I am proud of. They serve as a reminder that some of the most valuable education doesn’t come from textbooks and classrooms but from hands-on, real-world experiences that prepare young adults for success.